Abdul Matheen Mohamed, Managing Director of the Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC), has reaffirmed that the Maldivian public stands to benefit directly from the strengthening of foreign relations and the peace cultivated through international cooperation. His comments, delivered during an appearance on PSM News' 'Raajje Miadhu' programme, reflected on the recent state visits by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Matheen highlighted the historical foundations of ties between the Maldives and its neighbouring states, describing these relations as enduring and culturally embedded. He highlighted that Maldivians have traditionally upheld respectful engagement within principled boundaries, an ethic he described as vital to protect.
Citing the participation of regional leaders in Independence Day events, Matheen pointed to the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu as instrumental in revitalising the country's diplomatic profile. He characterised this as a marked shift in foreign policy and a sign of growing esteem from neighbouring governments.
He also drew attention to the Maldives' commitment to assert its position when necessary, noting that respect for all nations remains central, provided sovereign boundaries are not crossed. In this context, he described the easing of diplomatic tensions and the emergence of a cooperative international climate as important developments for the nation.
Matheen indicated that such improvements in international relations carry concrete advantages for the Maldivian public. He reiterated that policies anchored in public interest, along with efforts to deepen friendships abroad, reflect substantial progress in national governance.
"The advantages derived from peace, amicable relations, and collaborative efforts will primarily benefit the general public," he stated. "I firmly believe that implementing essential policy adjustments in the interest of the general public, and proactively engaging to cultivate stronger friendships, constitutes a substantial achievement. This must fundamentally guide our national trajectory. This represents indeed a most gratifying development for us."
Looking to the 60th Independence Day commemorations, Matheen described the presence of regional dignitaries as a signal of recognition for President Muizzu's symbolic "red line", a boundary defined to protect Maldivian sovereignty. He concluded that this acknowledgement represents a major diplomatic accomplishment for the president and his administration.